Notice to adhere to the flag code of India

KOHIMA, APRIL 27 (DIPR): It has been brought to the notice of the Ministry of Home Affairs, GoI that on important events, the National Flag made of plastic are being used in place of paper Flags. Since, plastic flags are not biodegradable like the paper flags; these do not get decomposed for a long time and are harmful to the atmosphere.   Further, ensuring the appropriate disposal of National Flags made of plastic with the dignity of the flag is a problem.   It may also be noted that as per Section 2 of 'The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971'- Whoever in any public place or in any other place within public view burns, mutilates, defaces, defiles, disfigures, destroys, tramples upon or otherwise shows disrespect to or brings into contempt (whether by words, either spoken or written, or by acts) the Indian National Flag or any part thereof, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.

  The Ministry, therefore, has requested to ensure that on important national, cultural and sports events, Flags made of paper only are used by public in terms of the provisions of the ‘Flag Code of India’ and such paper Flags are not discarded or thrown on the ground after the event. Such Flags are to be disposed of in private consistent with the dignity of the Flag.   Wide publicity not to use National Flag made of plastic should be made along with its advertisement in the electronic and print media.